Style of the business report:
- Between 10-13 pages
- 10-12 point font
- Labeled section headings (including subheadings if needed)
- Use third person pronouns and no slang. Third person pronouns—he, she, it, they—refer to someone or something being referred to apart from the speaker or the person being addressed.
- In-text citations and “References” page needs to be in APA format
Business Report Sections to be Included:
Cover Page
- Title of Report
- Prepared for
- Prepared by
- Date
Table of Contents
Executive Summary
A one page summary of the entire business report (this should be written last)
Introduction and Objective
Introduce the opportunity or problem
State the objective of the report
Methodology
Present your research (primary or secondary)
- Primary research: survey, interviews, financial performance (10K report), etc.
- Secondary research: read and review scholarly, trade, or popular articles
Analysis
Give an analysis of your research
- Add graphics in the analysis of your research, if appropriate
- Use an analysis technique to review your research or an aspect of your research, if appropriate (ex; SWOT Analysis, Competitive Landscape Analysis, PESTLE Analysis, MOST Analysis, etc.)
Conclusions and Recommendations
Give the conclusion of the analysis
Offer recommendations
- Recommendations should include what needs to be done, who needs to do it, how and when
References
All references must be listed in APA format
Appendix (optional)
Add supplementary material that is not an essential part of the report itself but that may be helpful in providing a more comprehensive understanding of the topic